Interview with The Designer: Desk 01

We're stepping into the world of desks in style. To mark the launch, we sat down with Desk 01's designer, John, to talk inspiration, process, and the details you might miss at first glance.

Desk 01 is described as having a ‘Nordic Nest’ style - what does that mean and how did it influence the design?

Swyft’s Nordic Nest Design Style brings the calm and beauty of Scandinavian design into the home. It features furniture and homeware with clean lines, natural textures, soft neutral tones, and gentle touches of colour. Each piece is designed with simplicity in mind and made from materials like oak, linen, and stone. The collection combines stylish shapes with practical use, blending modern design, handcrafted details, and geometric touches to create a peaceful and well-balanced look that suits any space.

Was there a specific problem or need you were looking to solve with this desk?

There wasn’t really a problem as such that we were looking to solve, we just really wanted to make something that looks just as beautiful and works just as well as its high-end counterparts at a much more affordable price, and I think we really achieved that balance with this desk.

How did you approach combining style with functionality?

Functionality is something we’ll never compromise on. When you make a product, it needs to work. With all of our Swyft products, style and functionality goes hand-in-hand. With this desk, we’ve incorporated sleek storage with the lift-top compartments, holes for cable management, and created it with sturdy solid white American oak for durability, and paired it with a beautiful oak grain and curved edges for that touch of style.

Who do you envision using this desk?

Really, anyone. We don’t design our products with a specific person in mind — our goal is to create something versatile, functional, and beautiful that fits seamlessly into a wide range of lifestyles. Whether you're a student needing a focused study space, a remote worker setting up a home office, a creative professional needing room to spread out, or someone who simply appreciates thoughtful design, this desk is made to adapt to your needs.

Did you run into any challenges when designing this desk? How did you overcome them?

The curved wood corners at the back of the desk were a challenge to get right. We tried a few different methods and eventually decided on using bent wood with an oak veneer. This gave us the best balance between the look we wanted and a process that could be done consistently during production. The result is a smooth, clean curve that adds a refined touch to the desk without compromising on quality or efficiency.

What materials did you choose for the Desk 01 and why?

We chose a combination of solid and veneered oak in oak and walnut stains for its longevity, durability, and timeless appeal. Solid oak allowed us to shape and round key edges, giving the desk a softer, more organic feel. The white oak grain brings depth and character, with a natural texture that's warm and tactile to the touch. It’s a material that not only looks beautiful but also stands up well to daily use.

Are there any features on this desk that people might not notice at first?

Yes, there are a few thoughtful details that are easy to miss at first glance. The desk includes two internal storage compartments, each with a discreet cable port and enough space to house a 4-gang mains extension, keeping cables neatly out of sight. There's also a hidden front support rail that opens to reveal a shallow drawer, perfect for storing a laptop or small essentials.

Do you plan to design more furniture in this style?

Absolutely. The Nordic style is a core part of Swyft’s design language. We’re drawn to its emphasis on clean lines, elegant forms, and a deep respect for materials and craftsmanship. It reflects our commitment to creating furniture that’s both functional and timeless, pieces that feel considered, refined, and built to last. So you can definitely expect to see more designs in this style.

Your dream work set up is waiting. Shop the Desk 01 here.